People invited to mark COVID-19 Day of Reflection in Swindon
Lydiard Park will host a service to remember lives lost during the pandemic
Last updated 23rd Feb 2026
People in Swindon are invited to a commemorative service at Lydiard Park in early March to mark the COVID-19 Day of Reflection.
Set to take place on Sunday, 8th March 2026, from 3pm to 4pm, the event will be held outside Lydiard Park's historic Walled Garden. The garden features a sculpture unveiled in 2023 to honour how Swindon supported its vulnerable residents during the pandemic.
The service will provide an opportunity for individuals to pause, reflect, and remember those who lost their lives during COVID-19.
The event's programme includes a reading by the Mayor’s Chaplain, input from community leaders, and a moment of silence for contemplation. Attendees will be invited to attach yellow ribbons to the sculpture as symbols of remembrance and hope.
The UK Commission on Covid Commemoration established the annual Day of Reflection in 2023. This initiative was created to identify ways to collectively remember those who died and to help mark the nation's experience during the pandemic.
Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “The national COVID-19 Day of Reflection on 8 March is a chance to pause and remember the extraordinary efforts of communities across Swindon.
“It is an opportunity to pay tribute to the dedication of health and social care staff, frontline workers and researchers, as well as the countless residents who volunteered and showed incredible kindness during that time.
“The pandemic touched every family and every community differently and it is important that we continue to acknowledge that shared experience.
“Swindon continues to play its part in the Covid response with Covid vaccines still being produced in the town at Thermo Fisher Ltd.
“The service at Lydiard Park offers a moment for residents to come together in quiet reflection.”